Politics · Philippines Bureau
Power companies barred from cutting off delinquent customers until year-end
The Energy Regulatory Commission has extended its moratorium on electricity disconnections for unpaid bills through December, offering continued relief to struggling households. The regulator said it will reassess the policy once the year concludes.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — Filipinos falling behind on their electricity payments will retain protection from power disconnections for the remainder of the year under an extended moratorium from the Energy Regulatory Commission.
The ERC announced it is maintaining its no-disconnection policy through December, shielding households from service interruptions despite outstanding bills. The measure provides continued financial relief as the country navigates economic pressures affecting consumer spending.
ERC Chair Francis Saturnino Juan indicated the regulator aims to keep the policy in place until year-end before determining its next course of action. "We're targeting until the end of the year, then we will assess from there on what [will be our next move]," Juan said.
The extended moratorium addresses growing concerns about utility access for lower-income households struggling with accumulated arrears. The policy has been a key intervention measure as the regulator seeks to balance the financial needs of power distributors with consumer protection objectives.
The ERC is expected to conduct a comprehensive review of the policy's impact and economic conditions in the fourth quarter to inform decisions regarding electricity disconnection rules for 2024.